🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ducati

Model:

750S, 750SS, 900S, 900SS

Model Variant:

Super Sport (SS)

Generation:

Second Generation (Air/Oil Cooled V-Twin)

Engine Code:

Desmodue (750cc and 900cc)

Chassis Codes:

M900, M750 (for Monster variants which share components)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Sportbike / Performance Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Performance-oriented riders, enthusiasts seeking a blend of Italian style and V-twin character.

Key Competitors Era:

Yamaha FZR, Suzuki GSX-R, Kawasaki Ninja, Honda CBR (similar displacement classes), other European sportbikes.

Engine Architecture:

Air-cooled, Desmodromic valve actuation, L-twin (90-degree V-twin) configuration.

Chassis Design:

Steel trellis frame, delivering characteristic Ducati handling and rigidity.

Suspension Setup:

Quality suspension components (e.g., Showa or Marzocchi forks, Sachs or Boge rear shock), often with adjustability.

Ducati Heritage:

Ducati is renowned for its performance focus, distinctive V-twin engines, desmodromic valve system, and Italian design flair.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Years:

1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996

Covered Models:

Ducati 750SS, Ducati 900SS

Estimated Page Count:

Over 400 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF assumed based on common sales practices)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Top-end rebuild (cylinders, heads, valves, Desmodromic system), bottom-end rebuild (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings), timing, lubrication system, cooling system (oil cooler).

Fuel System:

Carburetor overhaul (Mikuni VM series typically), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing adjustment, coil replacement, spark plug specifications, CDI unit troubleshooting.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch inspection and replacement (dry clutch), gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanism, final drive (chain and sprockets).

Brakes:

Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, pad and disc inspection.

Suspension:

Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring specifications), rear shock absorber inspection and adjustment, linkage maintenance.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, fuse identification, switchgear.

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing replacement, swingarm service.

Bodywork Fittings:

Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, exhaust system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake fluid flush, coolant flush (if applicable to specific oil cooler setups).

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, braking performance issues.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacements, electrical system diagnosis and repair.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling key components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and chassis teardowns and rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - typically searchable, high-resolution scans.

Scanned Quality:

High resolution, ensuring legibility of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, 90° L-twin (V-twin), Desmodromic valve control.

Displacement 750:

748 cc (approx.)

Displacement 900:

904 cc (approx.)

Bore X Stroke 750:

82 mm x 71.5 mm (approx.)

Bore X Stroke 900:

92 mm x 68 mm (approx.)

Valve Actuation:

Desmodromic (2 valves per cylinder)

Compression Ratio Approx:

9.5:1 to 10.0:1 (varies by year/model)

Cooling System:

Air-cooled with oil cooler

Horsepower 750 Approx:

60-65 HP @ 8000 RPM

Horsepower 900 Approx:

70-75 HP @ 7500 RPM

Torque 750 Approx:

6.0-6.5 kgf-m (approx.)

Torque 900 Approx:

7.5-8.0 kgf-m (approx.)

Carburetor Type:

Mikuni VM30SS (typically twin carburetors)

Fuel Grade Recommendation:

Unleaded gasoline, 91+ octane (RON+MON)/2

Oil Capacity Approx:

3.5-4.0 Liters (including filter)

Oil Type Recommendation:

SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed, constant mesh

Optional Transmission:

N/A (standard 5-speed)

Clutch Type:

Dry, multi-plate clutch

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Length Approx:

2100-2200 mm (varies by model/fairing)

Width Approx:

700-800 mm (excluding mirrors)

Height Approx:

1150-1250 mm (to top of windshield/fairing)

Wheelbase Approx:

1400-1450 mm

Dry Weight Approx 750:

180-190 kg

Dry Weight Approx 900:

190-200 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity Approx:

15-18 Liters

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles typically not rated by formal agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP in the same way as cars).

Active Safety:

Responsive braking system (dual discs front, single rear), balanced chassis for stable handling.

Braking System Front:

Dual 320 mm discs, multi-piston calipers (e.g., Brembo).

Braking System Rear:

Single 245 mm disc, multi-piston caliper.

Passive Safety:

Robust trellis frame for structural integrity, rider-focused ergonomics for control.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, incandescent tail/brake lights, turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (This era of motorcycle predates significant onboard electronic infotainment systems).

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS, traction control, or ride modes were standard or commonly available on these models).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No Bluetooth, GPS, or app connectivity).

Instrument Panel:

Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights (oil pressure, neutral, high beam, turn signals).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Change Interval:

Every 5,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Desmo Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000-12,000 km (critical for desmodromic systems).

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Every 1,000 km and after washing/wet riding.

Carburetor Sync Check:

As needed, or during major service intervals.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years (hygroscopic nature).

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 10W or 15W (specific type and quantity detailed in manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified for older models).

Clutch Fluid Type:

Mineral oil (if hydraulic clutch) or refer to manual (dry clutch is mechanical linkage, no fluid).

Desmo Service:

The Desmodromic valve system requires precise adjustment; neglecting this can lead to poor performance or damage. Regular checks are paramount.

Carburetor Maintenance:

Mikuni VM carburetors can require tuning and cleaning; ensure proper synchronization between the two carburetors.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent electrical faults. Checking and cleaning grounding points is recommended.

Dry Clutch Wear:

Dry clutches require regular adjustment and have a shorter lifespan than wet clutches; watch for slipping or heavy operation.

Cam Belt Replacement:

While the Desmodromic system uses gears, timing belts (if present on specific accessory drives or earlier models sharing components) need timely replacement. The SS models primarily use gear drive for desmo. Check for accessory drive belts.

📚 Vehicle History

Ducati Origins:

Founded in 1926, Bologna, Italy. Initially focused on radio components, later motorcycles known for racing heritage and V-twin engines.

Ss Lineage:

The 'Super Sport' designation signifies Ducati's sporty lineage, evolving from earlier models. This generation (1991-1996) represents a significant update to the air-cooled V-twin platform, bridging the gap to later liquid-cooled generations.

Key Design Elements:

Designed by Miguel Angel Galluzzi (who also designed the original Monster), incorporating a blend of classic Ducati styling with modern sportbike cues.

Production Period:

1991-1996 (for the models covered by this manual).

Manufacturing Location:

Bologna, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Heritage:

While not directly awarded, the SS models benefited from Ducati's extensive racing success, particularly in Superbike championships, which validated the V-twin engine and chassis technology.

Performance Reviews:

Generally praised by contemporary motorcycle press for performance, handling, and distinctive character, despite the practical considerations of air-cooled V-twins and dry clutches.

Certifications:

N/A (Motorcycles are homologated for road use by national authorities, not typically 'awarded' in a consumer sense).